Architecture
Understanding the technical design and system components of Zcrypt
System Overview
Zcrypt is built on a modern, scalable architecture that combines client-side cryptography, blockchain integration, and decentralized messaging. The system is designed to maximize privacy while maintaining high performance and user experience.
Client-Side Cryptography
All sensitive operations happen in the browser. Zero-knowledge proofs are generated client-side, ensuring no secrets ever leave your device.
Solana Blockchain
Leverages Solana's high-performance blockchain for fast, low-cost transactions and on-chain verification.
Distributed Storage
Messages and data are stored in a distributed manner, with encryption keys derived from user credentials.
Serverless Backend
API routes handle message routing and real-time updates without storing sensitive user data.
Architecture Layers
Presentation Layer
Built with Next.js 14 and React, providing a modern, responsive user interface. Styled with Tailwind CSS and enhanced with Framer Motion animations.
Cryptography Layer
Implements zero-knowledge proof generation and verification, along with end-to-end encryption for messages. Uses industry-standard libraries.
Blockchain Layer
Integrates with Solana blockchain for wallet management, transactions, and on-chain verification of proofs.
API Layer
Serverless API routes handle message routing, user management, and real-time synchronization without storing sensitive data.
Authentication Data Flow
- 1
User enters credentials
Username and ZK secret entered in browser
- 2
Generate ZK proof
Client-side proof generation proving knowledge of secret
- 3
Derive wallet
Solana keypair derived from ZK secret deterministically
- 4
Submit proof
Proof sent to server for verification (secret never transmitted)
- 5
Verify and authenticate
Server verifies proof and grants access without knowing the secret
Security Considerations
✓ Zero-Knowledge Authentication
Credentials never leave the client. Even if the server is compromised, attackers cannot derive user secrets from stored proofs.
✓ End-to-End Encryption
Messages are encrypted client-side before transmission. Only the intended recipient can decrypt them.
✓ On-Chain Verification
Critical operations can be verified on Solana blockchain, providing transparent and immutable audit trail.
✓ No Single Point of Failure
Decentralized architecture ensures the system remains operational even if individual components fail.
Learn More
Dive deeper into specific aspects of the system architecture.